From a Theft Lawyer in West Palm Beach, FL: Understanding Legal Penalties
Determining the Severity of the Crime
Florida separates theft offenses into petit theft and grand theft. If you are convicted of petit theft, which involves property valued under $300, the offense can be charged as a misdemeanor. However, if the value exceeds $750 or the circumstances involve certain protected property, you may face grand theft charges, which are felonies. Grand theft penalties include lengthy probation, high fines, and prison terms of up to 30 years, depending on the degree of the felony.
Repeat offenses increase the severity of the charges. If you have a prior theft conviction, a second petit theft offense may be enhanced to a felony, even if the value of the item is low.
Considering Collateral Consequences
Theft is considered a crime of dishonesty, which can cause significant damage to your reputation. A conviction on your criminal record may interfere with your ability to obtain employment, especially in positions that require trust, such as those in retail, financial services, or caregiving. Employers often conduct background checks, and many view a theft conviction as a disqualifier.
You may also encounter challenges in securing housing. Landlords can deny rental applications if they believe a conviction makes you a liability. In addition, certain professional licenses may be denied or revoked due to a theft-related offense. If you hold a license in fields such as nursing, real estate, or teaching, you must disclose your conviction, and disciplinary action may follow.
Reviewing Immigration and Civil Consequences
If you are not a U.S. citizen, a theft conviction can create serious immigration problems. Under federal immigration law, crimes involving moral turpitude, including theft, can lead to deportation, denial of re-entry, or ineligibility for naturalization. Even if you have lawful status, a conviction may jeopardize your ability to remain in the country.
In addition to criminal penalties, you may be required to pay restitution to the victim. The court can order you to reimburse losses resulting from the theft, and unpaid restitution may affect your probation status or result in additional legal consequences.
A theft conviction in Florida can have a lasting impact on your criminal record, your career, and your personal life moving forward. We work to defend you against these charges and protect your rights at every stage. You must take the charges seriously, understand the legal risks involved, and take informed steps to respond. Schedule a consultation with us today at The Skier Law Firm in West Palm Beach, FL, to secure a strong defense against unfair accusations so that you can feel confident about the future that lies ahead.